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autism spectrum disorder

Featured Genetics Neurology Neuroscience Psychology

·April 27, 2019·2 min read

New research reviews the state of vaccine safety science

Researchers will present a systematic review of scientific evidence for, and against causal associations for 47 proposed adverse events following immunizations at PAS 2019. The review found that, for 12 of the 47 AEFIs in the study, a causal relationship has been established with at least one vaccine. With the exception of deltoid bursitis, where a vaccine is administered incorrectly, causing pain to the arm, the adverse reactions are very rare. For the other 35 AEFis, the evidence does not support a causal relationship between conditions, such as ASD, asthma, diabetes, multiple sclerosis or SIDs, and vaccinations.

This shows the lead research looking after a baby in a neonatal ward

Autism Featured Neuroscience

·April 27, 2019·3 min read

Placental function linked to brain injuries associated with autism

Disruptions in the supply of allopregnanolone, a hormone created by the placenta late in pregnancy, to the developing fetus can leave children more vulnerable to brain injuries associated with ASD. Losing the supply of ALLO alters cerebellar development, an area of the brain critical for motor coordination and social cognition, impacting the post-birth development of cerebellar white matter. An experimental model revealed deficient cerebellar white matter resulted in social impairments and an increase in repetitive behaviors, two hallmark features associated with autism.

kids are playing on a swing in this image

Featured Genetics Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles Psychology

·April 26, 2019·3 min read

MMR vaccine and autism link debunked again: MMR vaccine reduces ASD risk in subgroup of girls

Another new study refutes claims of a link between the MMR vaccine and autism. The study reports no link has been found between MMR and an increased autism risk, even in children with other risk factors for ASD. Researchers also reported, in a subgroup of girls, the MMR vaccine reduced the risk of autism by between 16% and 21%. No link was found between other vaccinations, such as Hib and DTaP, and an increased risk of ASD.

This is a diagram of a pregnant woman and shows the brain scans with the deficient networks

Featured Neurology Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles Psychology

·April 26, 2019·5 min read

No safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy

Teenagers who were exposed to alcohol while in the womb are more likely to have disruptions in neural connections through the corpus callosum, which can lead to cognitive impairment and a range of neurological, and psychological disorders. Researchers recommend pregnant women completely abstain from drinking alcohol.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience

·April 26, 2019·4 min read

Gene repair improves memory and seizures in adult autism model

Researchers genetically restored levels of the SynGAP protein in adult mice who were deficient. Restoring the protein levels resulted in improved memory and a reduction in seizures related to the SYNGAP1 disorder, a form of autism. Findings suggest it is possible to extend the window of treatment for those with this specific form of ASD, beyond infancy and into adulthood.

Autism Featured Genetics Neuroscience Psychology

·April 19, 2019·3 min read

High-risk genes for schizophrenia discovered

Study identifies 104 high-risk genes for schizophrenia. One gene considered high-risk is also suspected in the development of autism.

This shows two heads and networked lines

Autism Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·April 19, 2019·3 min read

Behavioral disorders in kids with autism linked to reduced brain connectivity

Reduced connectivity between the amygdala and ventrolateral prefrontal cortex has been identified in children on the autism spectrum who exhibit disruptive behaviors, compared to those on the spectrum who do not. Findings suggest this distinct brain network could be independent of core autism symptoms.

This is the lead researchers sitting in a child's play ground

Autism Featured Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles

·April 11, 2019·9 min read

Autism rate rises 43 percent in New Jersey

The prevalence of 4-year-old children being diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder in New Jersey increased by 43% within a four-year span. Researchers determine the prevalence rate of ASD is one in 35, according to a new report from the CDC and Rutgers University.

This shows a brain with the amygdala highlighted

Featured Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles Psychology

·April 11, 2019·5 min read

‘Mindreading’ neurons simulate decisions of social partners

Neurons in the amygdala derive object values based on observations and use the values to simulate a social partner's decision making.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles Psychology

·April 10, 2019·4 min read

Protein pileup affects social behaviors through altered brain signaling

Study implicates disrupted autophagy and protein aggregation in the pathogenesis of autism schizophrenia and social behavior deficits in other disorders.

Autism Featured Neuroscience Neuroscience Videos Open Neuroscience Articles Psychology

·April 9, 2019·10 min read

Autism symptoms reduced nearly 50% two years after fecal transplant

Arizona State University researchers claim microbiota transfer therapy reduces symptoms associated with autism and gastrointestinal problems for two years post-treatment. The study suggests MTT may be a promising option for helping to treat children with ASD who also have GI problems. The researchers stress further research, including double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized trials with a larger cohort be carried out.